See the ToolsI use every day

Every week, I maintain THE TEMPLATE, an award-winningWinner of the 2015 Plank Center Award (public relations org.) for commitment to mentorship. blog that's been viewed more than 1.5 million times by people all over the world. In every column, I provide step-by-step instruction to help you become a stronger communicator. Like I always say, "Write well, open doors!"

Mature young professionals aren’t full of hot air. In fact, they let their actions do all the talking. If you have the proof, then what’s left to say?

7. They never flaunt success

Authentic Millennials might have had the greatest day of their career, but you wouldn’t know it. They do what they do, rarely broadcast big news and, if you ever find out, it won’t be from them.

8. They mean what they say

They understand the supreme value of a reputation and how even one mistake can tarnish it. Someone you can count on implicitly? Now that’s real.

9. They accept what they don’t know

The top Gen Yers recognize how much they have left to learn. They seek people they respect, ask how to improve (like this) and, in authentic fashion, sit quietly, listen and absorb.

10. They make other people better

They lead by example and refuse to sacrifice their core values no matter how difficult (or confusing) the journey becomes.

11. They never, ever fit the mold

Genuine Millennials beat to their own drum, and the absolute best of us do so to make the world a better place. When individual passion aligns with broader purpose…well, it doesn’t get much more authentic than that.